Igloo bunker residents file class-action lawsuit against owner

Residents of the Vivos xPoint bunker complex in Edgemont, South Dakota, have filed a class-action lawsuit against owner Vivos xPoint Investment Group, seeking over $17 million in damages. The lawsuit alleges the 99-year lease agreements are “illusory” and unenforceable, as Vivos retains the right to unilaterally change the contract and evict tenants while keeping their improvements. Plaintiffs also claim Vivos made “deceptive and misleading statements” regarding amenities like a medical facility and gymnasium, none of which have been built despite promises made to attract renters, who are primarily survivalists.

The complex, originally built as a military munitions storage facility during World War II, consists of hundreds of underground bunkers. Tenants pay upfront fees of up to $55,000 and monthly fees for the lease, and are responsible for making the bunkers habitable. A previous case challenging the lease legality was upheld by a circuit court but is currently under appeal.

The lawsuit seeks reimbursement for lease fees, bunker improvements, and monthly amenity fees, and potentially ownership of the bunkers if Vivos cannot pay. More than 40 tenants have already expressed interest in joining the class-action suit.

(Source：KOTA Territory News)